​Lavender vs Lilac: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get lavender mixed up with lilac. Both scents come from flowers with soft purple coloration, and with that alliteration, it’s easy to forget which is which. Their names and colors may be similar, but the two plants are actually very different-- a fact that’s reflected in their highly distinct fragrances.

What is Lavender?

Lavender is a grouping of related plants in the genus Lavendula. A member of the mint family, lavender is a perennial plant known for its appealing flowers and enticing fragrance. The plants are widely cultivated both as a garden ornamental, and for their essential oils. The flowers even have culinary uses, and are widely incorporated into herbal teas and condiments.

The plant’s flowers are arranged in whorls on spikes above the foliage, with color ranging from deep bluish-purple to soft purple-grey hues.

What Does Lavender Smell Like?

Lavender’s distinctive scent is light and fresh, floral but not overwhelmingly heavy. This makes it one of the world’s most popular fragrances. You can smell for yourself with our Lavender scent at AP Fragrance.

What is Lilac?

Lilac, known by the scientific name Syringa vulgaris, is actually closely related to olives. It’s native to the Balkan Peninsula in Europe, where it thrives on rocky hills. The flowers are arranged in pairs or in whorls of three, with a tubular base opening up into a trumpet shape. The clusters of flowers range in color from cool light purple to pinkish mauve hues. Its attractive and sweet-smelling flowers make Lilac a popular garden shrub.

What does Lilac Smell Like?

The smell of Lilac is quite different from lavender. It’s more deeply and richly floral, reminiscent of rose with hints of vanilla. If you prefer stronger perfumes, Lilac is an excellent choice. To try it for yourself, check out our Lilac fragrance in our shop.